Bridge Operator I - Dam and Lock Operator I

About the Division of Design and Engineering

Continuing over a century of visionary land stewardship, DCR's Division of Design & Engineering (D&E) collaborates with colleagues within DCR, other agencies, and communities across the state to plan, design, build, and maintain a diversity of outdoor recreational experiences and unique landscapes throughout the Commonwealth. In addition, our staff is responsible for maintaining public infrastructure including dams, seawalls, parkways and park roads, sidewalks and trails, and stormwater systems. This requires employing a diverse range of talent including architects, engineers, landscape architects, planners, tradespeople as well as business, finance and administrative support who work together to support D&E's mission. Our staff is unified by a passion for providing access to high quality public open space and outdoor recreation for all ages and abilities, and strive to improve visitor experience, enhance universal accessibility, and help modernize DCR's facilities and resources to be more carbon neutral, energy independent, and resilient to climate change.

General Statement of Job Duties and Responsibilities

The incumbent of this position will operate dams and equipment at dams to control water elevations. Additionally, the incumbent will operate and maintain dam and navigation infrastructure, control water levels and boat traffic, and ensure safe passage for vessels while protecting public safety. Responsibilities include operating hydraulic, electric, and mechanical equipment to manage navigation locks, water levels, movable bridges, traffic gates, and pumps; the order and number of vessels to be allowed to pass through navigation locks to ensure the safety of crew members and vessels; use public address system, flags, marine radio equipment, and/or video equipment to monitor and control boat, pedestrian, and street traffic. The role requires coordination with vessel operators, Coast Guard personnel, harbormasters, public safety staff, agency personnel, and the public.

Detailed Statement of Job Duties and Responsibilities

Responsibilities and duties include, but are not limited to:

• Monitoring water levels and decide when and how to manipulate them, such as by pumping or releasing water by operating sluice gates to maintain safe, predetermined water levels.
• Maintaining operational logs documenting weather conditions, water levels, vessel identification information, work performed, and any equipment issues or unusual system and facility activity.
• Operating valves, locks, movable bridges and traffic gates at locks and bridges by using electrical control panels; raises and lowers lock water levels by starting and stopping pumps, opening and closing valves, etc.; and opens and closes lock gates to allow boat passage.
• Determining the order and number of vessels passing through locks to ensure the safety of crews and vessels and uses public address system, flags, marine radio equipment and/or video monitor to monitor and control boat, pedestrian, and vehicular traffic.
• Performing minor mechanical and electrical repairs and routine maintenance on lock and bridge equipment; replaces small parts, bulbs, and fuses; lubricates mechanical components; uses backup manual controls or temporary lighting when equipment malfunctions; and reports or recommends major repairs when necessary.
• Performing security checks of area to prevent unauthorized activity.
• Responding to emergency situations such as boat and car accidents, fires, etc.
• Determining seaworthiness of vessels before allowing or denying passage.
• Performing related duties such as cleaning locks and operator's house by sweeping, picking up litter, washing windows, cleaning furniture, etc.; loading and unloading equipment and/or supplies; requisitioning supplies and equipment; operating snow blower; and administering first aid in emergencies.
• Will be working varied shifts, weekends, holidays and nights and on a standby (on call) work status.
• Perform relevant duties as assigned.

Additional Information

Dam and Lock Operators (Bridge Operators) work exposed to adverse weather conditions; may be subject to the harmful effects of noise, fumes, gases, etc.; hazardous conditions such as open water channels, ladders, bridge staging, steep slopes, etc, may work in a confined area.

Preferred Qualifications

• Skill in using small hand tools such as wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers, chisels, and hammers.
• Ability to use a modern personal computer system including reading and writing email, drafting reports, taking on-line training, entering work hours, etc.
• Ability to follow written and oral instructions.
• Ability to read, write, and comprehend the English language.
• Ability to adjust to changing situations to meet emergencies or changing conditions, to maintain a calm manner in stressful and emergency situations and to exercise sound judgment.
• Ability to work varied shifts, weekends, holidays and nights and on standby (on call) work status.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious working relationships with others.
• Ability to maintain accurate records.
• Manual dexterity.
• Physical stamina and endurance; must be able to stand for long periods of time and lift and carry heavy objects in excess of fifty pounds.
• Mechanical aptitude.

Pay

$46,128.42